# Active aging and social inclusion in Croatia and Slovenia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/active-aging-initiatives-worldwide
> Updated: 2026-09-07T11:00:21.000Z. Sources: 23. Developments: 6.

The landscape of active aging initiatives in Southeast Europe has expanded through new pilot programs and volunteer networks in Croatia and Slovenia.

In Croatia, the ‘Strengthening the network of non-institutional social services in the community’ project in Velika Gorica continues to provide free legal and psychological counseling to seniors to reduce social isolation. Additionally, the National Foundation for the Development of Civil Society has launched the ‘SENIORI’ pilot program. Supported by approximately 292,687 euros, this initiative involves 60 local retiree associations across nearly all Croatian counties, funding workshops and educational sessions to promote mental and physical health.

In Slovenia, the European ELEVATE project remains active in the Podnaveska region, working to transform ‘Points for the Elderly’ into community spaces for intergenerational exchange. Complementing this, the ‘Older for Older’ volunteer program has emphasized community cooperation through its annual meeting in Hrastnik. This program utilizes volunteers to provide companionship and assistance, helping seniors remain in their home environments and reducing social isolation.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-07: Regional initiatives support elderly social inclusion in Croatia and Slovenia

Community initiatives in Croatia and Slovenia are launching new programs and volunteer efforts to support elderly social inclusion, mental health, and active aging through local associations.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/regional-initiatives-support-elderly-social-inclusion-in-croatia-and-slovenia

### 2026-08-31: Regional initiatives expand social support for elderly populations

Community initiatives in Croatia and Slovenia are launching programs to support the elderly through free professional counseling and intergenerational social projects to reduce isolation.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/regional-initiatives-expand-social-support-for-elderly-populations

### 2026-08-26: Community initiatives launch to support active ageing and senior wellbeing

New programs like ‘Happy Ageing’ and ‘Legami in Movimento’ are launching to support active ageing and combat social isolation for seniors through cultural activities and animal-assisted wellbeing.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/community-initiatives-launch-to-support-active-ageing-and-senior-wellbeing

### 2026-08-14: Community programs promote active aging and senior wellness

Regional programs in Mexico and Spain are targeting senior wellness through social integration and adapted physical activities to combat loneliness and promote active aging.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/community-programs-promote-active-aging-and-senior-wellness

### 2026-07-27: Elderly Activity and Support Highlighted in Book and Japanese Programs

A Portuguese book highlights neuroplasticity and social activity for healthy aging, while Japan’s new benefits encourage seniors to stay employed, shifting attitudes toward retirement.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/elderly-activity-and-support-highlighted-in-book-and-japanese-programs

### 2026-07-25: Senior Activity Initiatives Boost Cognitive Health and Social Well‑Being

Craft workshops in Bolivia, water games in Spain and Montessori napkin‑folding all help seniors improve cognition, coordination and social ties, offering a holistic approach to active aging.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/senior-activity-initiatives-boost-cognitive-health-and-social-wellbeing

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Cite as: Active aging and social inclusion in Croatia and Slovenia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/active-aging-initiatives-worldwide